Get Over It
maybe not all of it
by Brenda Johnson
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Pub Date 22 Apr 2022 | Archive Date 1 Oct 2023
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Description
Anyone who has experienced both loss and the wish to move on will find themselves in this memoir. On a sunny autumn Saturday, Brenda Johnson's husband announced he wasn’t happy. Stunned by the message, she picked her heart up off the floor and biked to the farmers market.
Brenda's life living alone was normal, moving into each day with music from the last. But sadness lingered long for a reasonable divorce with no slander, theft, or hate. She grew weary of tears and began to repeat, “Get over it!” At the same time, Brenda recognized the beauty around her that she didn't want to get over.
The stories in this memoir, sprinkled with family history and bike rides, humor and sorrow, are familiar to anyone who has lived with both loss and the lovely.
Advance Praise
Brenda Johnson’s beautiful memoir reveals how “get over it” happens on one’s own terms, in day-to-day fashioning life with care and humor. Like a Haiku master, the author uses keen descriptions of nature and compassionate observations of human behavior. A pure joy to read. - Sally Green, co-author and artist of The Illuminated Hafiz with Coleman Barks, Robert Bly, and Michael Green
Embedded in Johnson’s stories is a map to living with the sharpness of deep loss. Despite the poignancy, Johnson's perceptive portrayals of everyday human experience charm and delight. - Cherie Bynum, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
In stepping out of post-divorce grief and into hope and abundance, this author's approach to life is contagious. But it’s not through denial of that grief that she grows. Instead, she bravely takes us through her pain and carries us into her next beautiful hour. I love the humor, the honesty, and the promise. - Laura Munson: New York Times bestselling author and founder of the acclaimed Haven Writing Retreats
Usually I read a good book in one sitting - but this book made me want to wander through slowly and thoughtfully. Reading the author's beautiful prose felt a bit like taking a long walk with a wise, funny friend; I didn't want it to end. We all have personal losses - some are massive, some small. This book helped me feel less alone with some of mine. The author shares her own joys and sorrows with an honest voice and a sense of perspective that I find myself reaching for again and again. This is a book I will reread for years. - Ali
This book contains beautifully written essays about family, a life well lived, fond memories of young love and marriage, and a close examination of profound grief over the the end of that marriage. Brenda’s keen, sometimes humorous observations of people, nature, and experiences are a joy to read. - May
The author describes her journey through love and loss, parenting, career, and friendships. She is a gifted writer, and her descriptions of both people, experiences, and especially her home in the Pacific Northwest are captivating. I didn’t want to put the book down. - Lily
Available Editions
| ISBN | 9781643888859 |
| PRICE | US$1.99 (USD) |
| PAGES | 304 |
Links
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
Kevin W, Educator
In Brenda Johnson's poignant memoir, "Get Over It: maybe not all of it," we embark on a journey through the complex terrain of loss, resilience, and rediscovery. This memoir is a heartfelt narrative that resonates with anyone who has faced the twin challenges of heartache and the desire to move forward.
The story begins on a seemingly ordinary autumn Saturday when Brenda's husband drops a bombshell: he's unhappy. Stunned and heartbroken by this revelation, Brenda finds herself metaphorically picking up the shattered pieces of her heart from the floor. In the midst of emotional turmoil, she does something beautifully mundane—she bikes to the farmers market.
As Brenda navigates the unfamiliar terrain of life as a suddenly single woman, she discovers that her days, once shaped by the rhythm of her marriage, have taken on a new, albeit initially disorienting, normalcy. Yet, amidst the grief and confusion, she harbors a quiet hope for a divorce that's free from the bitterness of slander, theft, or hatred.
The phrase "Get over it" becomes a personal mantra, a reminder to herself that life must go on, even when the pain threatens to consume her. It's a mantra that captures the essence of resilience — the ability to rise above adversity and continue moving forward.
But "Get over it" isn't just about letting go of the past; it's also about embracing the beauty that surrounds us. Brenda's memoir reveals the human capacity to find solace in the small joys of life — the music that accompanies her daily routines, the warmth of family history, the simple pleasures of bike rides, and the power of humor and sorrow to shape our experiences.
Brenda's experiences, thoughts, and emotions are universally human, making it easy for readers to connect with her narrative. As we journey alongside Brenda, we are reminded that while loss is an inevitable part of life, so too is the beauty that can be found amidst the heartache.
"Get Over It: maybe not all of it" illustrates resilience of the human spirit, a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always a glimmer of light. Brenda Johnson's memoir is an exploration of the duality of life — a delicate balance of loss and loveliness.
In the end, this memoir serves as a comfort for anyone who has experienced the rawness of loss and the healing power of embracing life's beauty, even when it seems impossible. Brenda Johnson's story is an authentic and touching reminder that we are all capable of finding solace, joy, and meaning in the midst of life's challenges.
“Brenda Johnson's memoir is a heartfelt journey through the complexities of loss, offering solace and inspiration to anyone seeking to find beauty amid life's challenges."
"A deeply relatable narrative that explores the resilience of the human spirit. 'Get Over It' reminds us that even in the darkest moments, there is always a glimmer of hope."
"Brenda Johnson's memoir is the embodiment of the healing power of storytelling. Her journey from heartache to embracing life's beauty is moving and inspiring."
"In 'Get Over It,' Brenda Johnson's accessible writing style captures the universal experience of loss, making it a compelling read for a wide range of readers."
"A memoir that resonates with authenticity, 'Get Over It' invites readers to find strength and inspiration in Brenda's journey of resilience and rediscovery."
"With grace and honesty, Brenda Johnson's memoir illuminates the path from loss to healing. 'Get Over It' is a touching reminder that life's beauty endures, even in the face of adversity."
"A powerful narrative that explores the human capacity for resilience. Brenda Johnson's 'Get Over It' unveils the strength of the human spirit."
"Brenda Johnson's memoir is an intimate exploration of the emotions and experiences that come with loss. Her story reminds us that healing is possible, and beauty can be found in the everyday."
"A compelling read that captures the essence of finding hope amid heartache. 'Get Over It' is a journey of resilience that will touch the hearts of readers."
"Brenda Johnson's 'Get Over It' is a heartfelt memoir that invites readers to reflect on their own journeys of resilience and the pursuit of life's beauty."
